Asheville-area Religion Calendar

Change ringers practice at the St. James Bell Tower in Hendersonville. The annual meeting of the North American Guild of Change Ringers will be Sept. 25-29 at St. James Episcopal Church in Hendersonville. The church's tower bells will ring often in public performances during the event.

Special Services

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS: Sept. 29, 5 p.m., Trinity Episcopal Church, 60 Church St., Asheville. Bring your pet to be blessed in this service honoring the legacy of St. Francis. The offering collected will benefit an animal charity in Asheville. Call 253-9361.

Music/Concerts

CHORAL EVENSONG & PIANO RECITAL: Sept. 29, 5 p.m., St. James Episcopal Church, 766 N. Main St., Hendersonville. Part of St. James 150th anniversary celebration. The choir will sing followed by a piano recital by Andrew Rogelberg. Call 693-9351.

MEMORY CAFE: Sept. 21, 2-4 p.m., Calvary Episcopal Church, 2840 Hendersonville Road, Fletcher. Held every third Saturday for those with memory loss and their friends or family. Come for fun, relaxation and socializing in a cafe atmosphere. Call 694-0540.

KIDS FOR CHRIST: 2:30-7:15 p.m. Wednesdays during the school year, First Baptist Church, 63 N. Main St., Weaverville. For grades 1-6. Snack, recreation, Bible study, choir, handbells and help with homework. A family night supper at $2 each follows, then participation in missions groups. Call 645-6720 to register.

INTERFAITH BOOK DISCUSSION: 5:30-7 p.m. every third Thursday, Grateful Steps Bookstore, 159 S. Lexington Ave., Asheville. On Sept. 19, Edward O'Keefe will present his book "Take It From the Top: What To Do With A Peak Experience." Focuses on local writers. Call 776-2860.

OPEN DISCUSSIONS ON SPIRITUAL HEALING: 6-7 p.m. every first Tuesday, Christian Science Reading Room in the Miles Building, Wall Street, Asheville. Selected readings and discussion of practical spiritual healing and practice. Call 254-2448.